Senior Mechanical Engineer

About the Company

Our client is redefining the future of space infrastructure by developing scalable, expandable modules for low Earth orbit, lunar, and deep space missions. Their solutions are designed to deliver unmatched volume, adaptability, and functionality for commercial, civil, defense, and scientific applications. With their next major launch planned for 2027, we're looking for mission-driven innovators ready to help pioneer the next era of off-Earth habitation.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 10+ years of experience in space payload design, integration, and qualification. This is a hands-on role for a seasoned engineer who has worked with leading space organizations and wants to apply their expertise in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting. You will be central to designing, developing, and integrating payload systems for expandable habitat missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems and structures for payloads integrated within expandable modules.
• Perform detailed CAD modeling, FEA, and thermal analysis for payload hardware.
• Lead end-to-end payload integration from concept through to flight-ready hardware.
• Ensure compliance with NASA and commercial launch vehicle interface requirements.
• Collaborate closely with systems engineers, soft goods specialists, and mission partners to ensure optimal integration and performance.
• Support environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC) and flight qualification.
• Contribute to mission planning, structural trade studies, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and help build a high-performing mechanical engineering team.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical design and development for spaceflight payloads.
• Proven experience at leading space hardware organizations.
• Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Familiarity with spaceflight standards and practices (NASA, ECSS, MIL-STD).
• Hands-on experience with environmental testing and qualification processes.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with modular payload platforms and habitat outfitting.
• Knowledge of launch vehicle interface and integration processes.
• Background in ISS, CLD, or lunar payload projects.
• Familiarity with human-rated spaceflight systems and safety protocols.

Who You Are

• A hands-on builder with deep technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills.
• Thrives in a collaborative, fast-moving, and agile environment.
• Motivated by delivering real hardware for operational space missions.
• Driven to make a lasting contribution to humanity's presence in space.

Why Join

• Be part of a core team building next-generation space infrastructure.
• Work on flight hardware with near-term mission timelines.
• Join a high-impact, mission-focused group in the heart of the U.S. space industry.
• Help create sustainable, scalable space solutions for the future of human exploration.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person